Innovation in Rexam

Intensifying the impact of cost saving and efficiency activities

Rexam's long standing commitment to the Six Sigma manufacturing quality standard is one of the main reasons behind our ability to achieve savings and efficiencies of around £30m year on year.

In 2008 we took this even further by deploying the Six Sigma kaizen (continuous improvement) approach throughout the Group. This innovative development combines the rigour of Six Sigma with the quick win mentality of kaizen to complete breakthrough projects within days rather than months. These projects included eliminating quality issues with our can ends, reducing gas and aluminium usage, improving spoilage rates and cutting the costs of repairs in the Beverage Can business. "The success of this new approach depends on scoping strategically important projects, sharing prior knowledge and working in a team with Six Sigma experience", says Dr Lisa Carroll, Director of Group Lean Enterprise (pictured). "With this innovative approach we can positively affect our manufacturing processes and, therefore, customer satisfaction and our bottom line."