Kruger "War on Waste" Change Management Campaign
Declaring War on Workplace Waste Saves Millions for Kruger Inc.
Problem
Calling the reduction of waste their “Number 1 business priority,” Kruger’s tissue manufacturing plant was experiencing accidents, damaged product, spoilage, inaccurate product volume and other types of waste at a rate that, if left unchecked, would have exceeded $3 million by year end. Fortunately, most of the areas of waste were preventable. What was needed was an increased level of awareness and commitment on the part of every employee — an all-out war in which everyone bands together to defeat the enemy.
Solution
Two of our favorite types of work — and two of our greatest strengths — were combined in this assignment. An internal communications effort to stem losses due to workplace carelessness and indifference, the “War on Waste” blends our talent for creating a strategic and cohesive campaign with our passion for making the world a better place. Combat was a fitting theme for the decades-old facility. During WWII, it was an important site for building the infamous B-25 bomber.
Results
Propaganda-style posters were mounted in protective frames and strategically placed throughout the 1.8 million square-foot manufacturing facility. The Dispatch, a biweekly newsletter, promoted the campaign, describing and picturing the “enemy”, laying out “battle plans” and featuring the heroic efforts of individual workers. An incentive contest awarded employees for their waste reduction ideas. Within days, employees were aware of the problem, enlightened as to their role, and enlisted to help. Six months after the start of the campaign, waste had been reduced by more than half. And the fight goes on.