Automotive Insulations is celebrating after receiving a prestigious JLRQ production award from Jaguar Land Rover, which recognises suppliers who meet the company’s high quality standards.
Part of the Autins Group, Automotive Insulations manufactures lightweight insulation materials to manage heat and sound, and was presented with the award by Terry Sampson, JLR’s global head of STA (supplier technical assistance).
Sampson, who is responsible for supplier quality for the whole of JLR across the globe, addressed staff at the Automotive Insulations site in Rugby and noted that: “Presenting JLRQ awards is the best thing I do.
“Coming to an operation like Autins today, gives me the opportunity to say ‘Thank You’ and to congratulate each and every one of you for what you have done and achieved.”
He also explained how the next two years promised to be an exciting time for JLR and its suppliers with the launch of at least three new vehicles scheduled by the end of 2018.
Sampson also acknowledged Autins’ growth and success over the past four years, which has imitated that of JLR itself.
Automotive Insulations (AI) received the award for excellence in three key areas:
- For working within a robust operating system and adhering to the strict standards that the automotive industry is subject to. This includes meeting the requirements of TS16949, ISO14001:2008 and MMOG (Materials Management Operations Guideline/Logistics Evaluation).
- For meeting quality and delivery requirements day-by-day which support the JLR production line. JLR make 42 cars an hour, 24/7. The company’s supply base contribute between 80% and 90% of the value of these vehicles. JLR measure its suppliers’ performance and found that not only did AI meet requirements, they consistently surpassed them.
- Getting the signatures of all the logistics and quality people in JLR’s factories. This means that at least six people have to sign a statement saying that they are happy that the supplier meets the required quality and delivery performance, which is one of the hardest things to achieve.
Managing director of Automotive Insulations, Paul Walker commented: “The JLRQ is not easy to achieve as there are rigorous quality standards to be met.
“This is a real testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff, as well as the new technology and equipment that we have invested in to ensure that our production line processes are efficient and at the forefront of the industry.”
The company is now setting its sights on the next stage; a further three global supplier excellence awards at bronze, silver and gold levels.
