Lean makes green

The use of lean systems saved Freudenberg-NOK $8.2 million, or $2,300 per employee, during 1994, the rubber and plastic component manufacturer reports. CEO Joseph C. Day says the cost savings and improvements -- $3.2 million higher than 1993 -- were generated from about 650 continuous improvement projects during the year involving almost all the company's workforce. The cost savings are being "shared with our customers and invested in R&D to ensure the company's long-term growth, security and profitability," Mr. Day says.