Established in 1941, Burcas is a leading precision tool manufacturer of dies, punches and wear parts for the bearing, spark plug and fastener industry throughout the world. It is a large and diverse company with a strong infrastructure and supply chain management systems that use the latest production and inventory control software.

Following its first strategic review in November 2001, and with diversification services and funding from Business Link Birmingham and Solihull, Burcas began converting old style workshops and set up the company's Aerospace Machining section; specialising in the manufacture and subcontract machining of high complex critical components and precision tooling used in the aerospace and defence sectors.

The inventory management service is based on 'push/pull' Kanban inventory management principles. Burcas ensures a supply of fully inspected and certified consumable tools and machined parts, with an immediate (24hrs maximum) replenishment of used items, backed up with accurate usage reports. The system effectively removes the inventory purchase order system and reduces costs on an annual basis.

Service contracts already in place include Champion Spark Plug and Yorkshire Fittings, where stock is held both on site and at the Birmingham base of Burcas. Visits by Burcas employees on regular days each week, keep the systems topped up with all the tools required for the non-stop production of components.

www.burcas.co.uk