PECM Issue 29 2017 | Page 83

eliminate shortages. The primary goal? Get the cars built. About Optimas Solutions Optimas is a global distributor of fasteners and c-class products. Optimas at its Andrew illustrates the cost savings that were achieved on axles alone: “The original axles were very expensive and specific for the design. Later in the project we found that we could divert orders from the supplier after we had reached the 50 cars that formed the prototyping process. By doing so, we have theoretically saved the customer approximately £350,000 in first year uptake obsolescence savings alone. However, this figure is a worst case scenario, based on a bill of materials that is not yet mature - so the actual saving is probably more.” During the prototype build phase, 136 components were identified as being no longer required from the initial fasteners list. By controlling usage, Optimas was able to deliver a further annual estimated cost saving of around £400,000 to the manufacturer. “The savings are substantial, even for a low volume premium vehicle,” Andrew explains, “but, thanks to being involved early, we were able to make informed decisions with the purchasing, engineering and production teams to drive a unified fastener policy that correlated to achieve these savings. I think this is something unique that we can provide at Optimas.” core is a provider of integrated supply chain solutions and engineering support focused on delivering highly engineered fasteners to world-class customers around the world. Optimas has a diverse, global team of approximately 1,600 individuals, over 40 distribution centers, 9 quality labs and 2 manufacturing locations to support the complexities of our customers’ industries, enabling them to achieve their goals and be successful. The image(s) distributed with this press release may only be used to accompany this copy, and are subject to copyright. Please contact DMA Europa if you wish to license the image for further use. In order to work closely with such a prestigious car company, Optimas has recently gained VDA 6.2 approval, an extension of ISO 9001 that is viewed in the industry as a fully recognised independent automotive standard. The certification is awarded with regards to the quality management systems employed by Optimas, and reinforces the business’ position as a trusted and proven component partner. As an automotive manufacturer, building an efficient relationship with a premium component supplier must begin at the earliest stages of production. By utilising dedicated teams that work in tandem with manufacturers, these premium suppliers can not only standardise and streamline component specification to save time; but also track and record parts usage to mature the bill of materials and enable huge savings through the elimination of wastage. Even for a marque with prestige, luxury and vivid history, there is still a need to reduce costs at all stages of vehicle production to maximise return. With the help of Optimas, that is exactly what they have achieved. Optimas is the first supplier to ever engage with the marque’s production and engineering teams at such an early stage. Photos: iStock Issue 29 PECM 83