As a private equity firm that buys and connects legacy manufacturing companies in the US, MRCA is dedicated to improving the industry through a number of innovative practices. Chief Strategy Officer Jason spoke about the importance of employee ownership at the company, explaining that it has consistently led to better profitability, higher employee morale, and lower turnover.
In a recent episode of the Cliff Notes Podcast, Jason Azevedo, CSO of MRCA, sat with Tristan Bailey to explain the plan that he started with his brother, to lift legacy manufacturing companies by investing in the people and processes.
But MRCA's commitment to continuous improvement doesn't stop there. The company is constantly seeking ways to streamline processes and increase efficiency, utilizing lean manufacturing principles to eliminate waste and add value for customers. This focus on continuous improvement is evident in the diverse range of products that MRCA's plants are able to produce.
One example of this versatility is the retail displays that MRCA is currently building for major retailers such as Walmart, Costco, and Sam's Club. These cardboard displays, often found at the end of aisles, require precise attention to detail and a high level of craftsmanship. At the same time, the company is also working on control panels for nuclear power plants, a project that demands the utmost in safety and reliability.
MRCA's expansion into a national portfolio has also provided new opportunities for its employees. Rather than leaving the company for new job opportunities, MRCA encourages its workers to consider transferring to one of its other locations. This not only helps to retain valuable employees, but it also reduces the cost and time required for onboarding and training at new locations.
Ultimately, MRCA's focus on employee ownership and continuous improvement has allowed it to thrive in the manufacturing industry. By building strong connections within its local communities, developing a skilled and motivated workforce, and constantly seeking ways to improve, MRCA is setting a high bar for other manufacturing companies to follow.
Key takeaways:
- "Building relationships with vendors and customers is key to success in any industry."
- "Manufacturing needs to start highlight it again as a viable career path."
- "Supporting the local community is also a strategic advantage for our business. Direct connections to input sources are crucial."
Books on the subject:
- The Lean Turnaround: How Business Leaders Use Lean Principles to Create Value and Transform Their Company by Art Byrne (published in 2013)
- The Toyota Way to Continuous Improvement: Linking Strategy and Operational Excellence to Achieve Superior Performance by Jeffrey K. Liker (published in 2004)
- Continuous Improvement in the Information Age: A Practical Guide to Achieve Better Results Faster by Matthew J. Maier (published in 2000)
- The Democratic Corporation: A Radical Prescription for Recreating Corporate America and Rediscovering Success by Douglas K. Smith and Richard J. Buday (published in 1994)
- The Employee Ownership Handbook: A Complete Guide to Designing, Implementing, and Maintaining an Employee Stock Ownership Plan by Corey Rosen (published in 1990)
It was great to spend half an hour sitting down and chatting with him, I hope you enjoy the show too.
Listen to: Cliff Notes Podcast with Jason