High-end furniture manufacturer Harden Furniture will upgrade its McConnellsville, N.Y., with state-of-the-art woodworking equipment and engineering software.
The furniture maker also will introduce additional lean manufacturing practices with the upgrade, which is expected to occur in several phases and ultimately involve an investment of as much as $3 million. The first phase will be operational prior to the end of 2012 and will include a "batch one" manufacturing cell supported by a new Holtzer CNC machining center and a complete replacement of the existing roughmill with a Weinig optimizing system.Harden's current manufacturing facility utilizes a batch process for most woodworking operations, and the modernization will convert several product lines to a lean manufacturing/just-in-time process. The anticipated benefits include shorter production lead times, an increased ability to customize existing designs, and reduced operating costs. In addition, Harden recently began offering the Cabinetmaker's Cherry Collection in solid black walnut as the new process will allow consumers to choose alternate hardwoods.The introduction of additional hardwoods compliments what has been a unique and popular Harden quality--the opportunity to select from over 40 distinctive finishes. The conversion of Harden's cabinetmaking operation to "batch one" expands custom capabilities and aligns all manufacturing processes with a more efficient lean model.According to President and CEO Greg Harden the investment will "establish Harden as one of the few furnishings manufacturers world-wide that has 'one off' and true custom capabilities. This will significantly leverage our existing product line while providing dramatic improvements in all aspects of our operations."The company has designed lean manufacturing systems for several product lines in recent years, including upholstery frame operations and dining table production. The availability of more sophisticated equipment and software will allow those practices to be extended to additional product segments. While the economy continues to be a concern for Harden and the entire furnishings industry, Greg Harden felt that "we had an opportunity to proactively apply technology in a manner that will improve our manufacturing performance and broaden our appeal to consumers who continually ask for more custom options." Harden Furniture produces solid wood case goods and custom upholstery, and is a Silver Exemplary Member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Founded in 1844, Harden is now in its fifth generation of family ownership.
