#China #Zhongshan #production capacity #First Mold #prototype division

First Mold's Strategic Relocation

In a bid to improve operational efficiency and production capability, First Mold, a leader in precision plastic parts manufacturing, is relocating its prototype division to be closer to its existing facility in Gangkou Industrial Park, Zhongshan, China. This strategic move is essential to address the inefficiencies created by the 13.5-kilometer distance between its current Dongsheng facility and the industrial park, which has led to delays and increased labor hours.

Historical Context

Since its founding in 2010, First Mold has established itself as a prominent player in the rapid prototyping and injection molding sectors. The opening of the Dongsheng facility has provided substantial capabilities, yet the separation from the Gangkou location has proven to be a logistical challenge. Delays in equipment deployment and longer technician commutes were not only hampering productivity but also incurring unnecessary costs. The management recognized the need for a significant change to enhance operational functionality.

Benefits of the Relocation

The strategic decision to relocate aims to close the operational gap markedly. With the prototype division now situated only 0.8 kilometers from the industrial park, First Mold anticipates a staggering 90% increase in CNC machine utilization. This not only streamlines workflow but also creates ample space for new injection molding machinery. With this transition, the company projects that it can increase its production capacity by 10%, yielding faster production cycle times and estimated cost reductions of 5-8% for its clients.

Insights from Management

James Li, General Manager of First Mold, highlighted that the relocation is not merely about moving equipment. “Relocation is not the purpose; reorganization of manufacturing logic is the essence,” he stated. The new layout will effectively eliminate the commuting time for technicians—thus enhancing their productivity. In addition, the equipment deployment time will be reduced significantly by 80%, allowing for a more agile response to production demands.

The consolidation of over 60 CNC machines and 20+ 3D printing machines into one facility marks a pivotal transition for First Mold, showcasing their commitment to advancing manufacturing efficacy.

Future Strategies

In alignment with this structural change, First Mold plans to cease operations at the Dongsheng facility and invest in cutting-edge equipment from reputable brands such as JSW, GF+, and Haitian. This investment positions the company to bolster its monthly production of precision injection molded parts significantly.

With these advancements, First Mold is not only poised to meet existing demands more efficiently but also aims to expand further into new markets. The leadership envisions that such strategic steps will fortify their competitive edge in the rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.

Summary

First Mold’s decision to streamline its operations by relocating and expanding the capacity of its prototype division is a case study in modern manufacturing solutions. By reducing distances and enhancing efficiencies, the company is set to deliver greater value to its clients while fortifying its market position. As they progress through this transition, the insights and resources afforded to First Mold will likely propel them to new heights in the precision manufacturing arena.