"Quality gates at all stages of production."

In conversation with Cédric Zimoch, Vice President Manufacturing UCF SU MFG – Global MFG.

Mr Zimoch, what makes production at the Woippy plant special?

Woippy was the first site to be built by CLAAS outside Germany. We are firmly rooted in the Moselle region. Round and square balers at manufactured here at the CLAAS Metz factory. Our production system is extremely flexible: we can produce different types of machine in parallel, tailored precisely to the needs of our customers, using the 'mixed production' principle. We are not simply a production plant. In Pre-production we manufacture various parts using state-of-the-art technology such as laser cutting machines, robotic and manual welding processes and our modern paint shop equipped with dip coating facility.

Which issues are particularly important to you as site manager?

Two aspects are particularly close to my heart: the safety of our employees and the quality of our production. The wellbeing of our employees is a core element of our corporate culture. Ergonomic work stations, modern tools and safety training ensure a safe and comfortable working environment. Take a look around: everyone is wearing ear defenders and safety shoes, because for me, safety is essential and takes absolute priority every day.

How does CLAAS ensure that Metz products meet the rigorous quality standards?

With us, quality assurance starts in the early stages of production. We have installed 'quality gates' at all workshops to continuously monitor compliance with our standards. Using laser trackers, we can measure components precisely and detect deviations in the micron range at an early stage. In addition, we conduct regular product audits. This involves taking a random baler out of production and testing it in the field. Our findings are fed back into product development to continually improve our products and processes. The 'Energize' project is a core element of our road map for the future. It entails strategic investment in infrastructure designed to increase the efficiency of our production plant. The aim is to optimise logistics processes and increase productivity. We are currently constructing a prototype building for Research & Development, which should be up and running by 2025.