Approximately one year after implementing a new, lean manufacturing system, American-based men's footwear maker Allen-Edmonds Shoe Corporation is reporting impressive results. In January 2004, Allen-Edmonds unveiled a manufacturing plan designed to offset rising production costs, increase profitability and improve responsiveness to customers. Lean concepts such as Just-in-Time, cellular manufacturing and the Toyota Sewing System were integrated into the company's largest production facility in Port Washington, Wisconsin. Key performance data were collected to track the new system's effectiveness.

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