Issue link: https://ppgrefinish-na.uberflip.com/i/742152
Dave and Jim are keenly aware of their responsibility to the next generation. Jim has two sons who work at the company, and Dave's daughter works there while attending college. To ensure that the Riverbend Automotive Group avoids complacency and maintains its leadership position, they have sought input from PPG through its MVP Business Solutions program. "The industry is changing, and cars are changing." says Dave. "What does that mean to us in the future? Do we need to change things to position ourselves for the future?" "Dave and Jim recognized that the MVP Green Belt Training was a way to take some stress out of doing business, and to create a better experience for both insurance companies and vehicle owners," says Holder. After an initial presentation, employees were given new responsibilities based on lean six sigma practices. The disassembly, repair, body repair, paint and reassembly processes were broken down into specialized areas. Tool placement and workflow was analyzed and fine-tuned. "We've probably reorganized three or four times (since a complete overhaul)," explains Dave, "and we've really embarked on a protocol of continual process improvement." The results have been dramatic. Cycle time had plummeted from 8.3 days to 5.5 days, versus the state average of 12.1 days. Touch time had been 2.5 hours per day, and is now up to 3.5 hours per day. Not surprisingly, Jim and Dave are quick to credit their employees for any success that the business has had. Their willingness to embrace change, Dave says, has helped the company achieve its latest level of success. Whatever the reason, it's obvious that Riverbend Body Shop has developed a formula for success that can last for generations to come. AT A GLANCE 1946 YEAR EST. 1 LOCATION 18,000 SQ. FT. $3.9 MIL ANNUAL SALES 24 COLLISION EMPLOYEES 2 PAINT BOOTHS ENVIROBASE ® HIGH PERFORMANCE PAINT SYSTEM AT A GLANCE 1946 YEAR EST. 1 LOCATION 18,000 SQ. FT. $3.9 MIL ANNUAL SALES 24 COLLISION EMPLOYEES 2 PAINT BOOTHS ENVIROBASE ® HIGH PERFORMANCE PAINT SYSTEM