Client Comments

Circle Y Saddles, Inc. currently operates a saddle manufacturing operation in Yoakum, Texas. The Texas facility has been manufacturing saddles and other equestrian related products for almost 50 years. In 2004 Trainor and Associates began working with our leadership toward the implementation of lean manufacturing principles and processes.
Prior to our transformation, our saddle manufacturing lead time averaged 10 weeks. We also manufactured saddles in batch quantities of 3 or more. The average labor content was over 12 hours per unit and we struggled with meeting our quality standards.

Over a period of approximately 12 months while working with Trainor and Associates we experienced a phenomenal transformation. We were able to reduce our lead time to 2.5 weeks while making single units. Our average labor content fell to less than 8 hours and our quality soared past our standards.

These improvements allowed us to improve our customer service greatly, reduce our work-in-process inventory cost by almost 60% and finished goods by 50%. While we continue our journey in constant improvement we are so far from where we were it seems almost unfathomable.

Thanks to Bob and his team for helping Circle Y continue its global competitive viability while manufacturing products in the US.


Steve Tucker Chairman, CEO


I cannot say enough great things about Bob and Brian. As the director of distribution for a mid-size direct to consumer business we faced several barriers with addressing capacity, productivity and new business launches. The size of our company did not allow for a full time IE - but we absolutely needed one if we were to remain competitive and hit our business plan. Bob and Brian were the answer and brought not only their technical skills into our operation but numerous insights gathered while supporting others with similar challenges. They did such a great job that every major problem or expansion we tackled was always prefaced with "what does Bob think we need to do?"
Rob Reynolds

Director, MTDC 946

 

 

 

 

"I recommend Trainor & Associates to anyone who is looking for professional and qualified assistance in improving productivity and work processes in their operations"

Group Facility Manager for a Distribution Center for Health Care Products

 

"Their analysis was thorough and accurate, and their recommendations were practical and right on target."

Director of Materials Management of a Manufacturing Company

 

"Not only have you helped us convert our manufacturing facility to a world class distribution center ... we feel that through your efforts it was done in the shortest time possible and at a cost that was within reason"

Vice President of Operations for a Retail Goods Distribution Center

 

"I think you underestimated the savings. It is closer to $60,000 to $100,000 ..."

Terry Brimhall, President
Brimhall Foods Co.,

 

"Your just very good at what you do. Great steward of God given talent. No kidding Bob, think you do a great job."

Director of Human Resources for Manufacturing Company

 

“You opened our eyes to a lot of improvement opportunities we did not realize”.

Distribution Manager of a Food Mfg.

 

“You are a change agent”

President of a Leather Goods Mfg. Co.

 

“One of the intangible benefits was the mindset gained by our plant management team in how they look at their jobs and how they can make improvements”

President of a Packaging Co.

 

“We will realize a minimum of a $100,000 annual savings in that department, and with the guidance you gave, we anticipate a total net annual savings of over $300,000 storewide.”

Owner of a Blueprint Co.

 

“I look forward to working on another project with you.”

Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance Manager for a Utility Co.

 

 “The quality of the project summary was exceptional, and the presentations to the staff and employees were very professional and easily understood”

Plant Manager of a Manufacturing Co.

 

 “I recommend him (Bob) to anyone who is looking for help in improving their manufacturing profitability”

President of a Frozen Foods Manufacturing Co.

 

“From the basic training overviews to the very active involvement in our Five S projects, your enthusiasm and commitment  towards creating a “lean culture” was contagious”

President of a Window Manufacturer

 

 “Our goal in Phase I was to identify at least a 10% improvement in our work process and with your consultation, we easily exceeded our target”

Director, Municipal Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts

 

“We recommend Trainor& Associates to other companies seeking assistance in improving work processes within their Manufacturing Operations”

Production –Inventory Control Manager of a Manufacturing Company

 

"I highly recommend the professional services of Trainor & Associates for  
your consideration in any warehouse storage project."

Director, Purchasing and Warehousing of a Municipal School System



 

Trainor and Associates
Process Improvement Specialists
4285 Wind Tree Cove • Bartlett, TN 38135 • bobt@gotrainor.com

Phone: 901-373-8940 • Fax: 901-377-0111