Baxter International Wins Team Excellence Award Competition

Summary: Global healthcare company Baxter International, Inc. maintains 67 manufacturing facilities around the world, including the North Cove Plant in Marion, NC. The plant produces approximately 300 medical devices and is the largest manufacturer of IV solution bags. To remain competitive, Baxter North Cove has developed a strong history of continuous improvement and operational excellence that focuses on customers and total employee involvement. The senior leadership team chose to apply lean methods to add value to its key production and administrative processes. The plant began its lean journey by forming two product and seven administrative value stream teams. Implementing lean techniques required no capital and has resulted in increased assets, decreased labor costs, improved cash flow, and improved employee morale. North Cove's One-Liter Saline IV Solution Value Stream Team won recognition by ASQ as the International Team Excellence Gold Award winner. The team's success has solidified lean as the operating strategy to meet the company's strategic objectives.