_________________________________________________________________________________ Champ
Metal Fabrication
AUTOMATED GROWTH
Automation is helping Champ Metal Fabrication’ s continued growth in the face of skilled labor shortages
Champ Metal Fabrication( Champ) is a prominent contract metal manufacturing company founded in 1967. Over the decades, it has evolved significantly, adapting to the changing needs of the industry. Kevin Medwick, President of the company, outlines this evolution:“ We started making dishwashers for bars initially. We then moved into the original equipment manufacturer( OEM) space, predominantly in the transportation sector and we now produce a lot for rail, buses, and similar applications. Additionally, we service the construction industry, the agricultural sector, and a wide range of other metal manufacturing needs.
“ What we really sell to our customers is efficiency and productivity. The more value we add, the more competitive we become in terms of pricing, ultimately benefiting our clients’ businesses,” Kevin continues. He elaborates on Champ’ s comprehensive approach:“ Where other companies might just focus on one service, we cut, bend, weld, clean, paint and assemble the parts, and then we deliver them just-in-time to be integrated with their equipment and factory.
“ We stand apart by working very closely with clients to ensure that the terms and conditions are in place so that we can build the largest back quantity possible. This strategy helps eliminate setup charges for the customer and emphasizes just-in-time delivery, making sure they have what they need, when they need it, without incurring the premium costs that many other companies charge.”
Throughout its history, Champ has continuously evolved with technological advancements to provide its customers with the best possible service. This commitment to innovation is a tradition that continues to this day. Kevin elaborates:“ We are continuously investing in the latest advancements in technology. For example, in April, we will be integrating a fully automated laser cutting system into our factory. We have also just completed the installation of a fully automated press brake in our US facility. These upgrades not only reduce lead times, bringing them to zero in the case of the press brake, but also decrease the number of operators required, from five to just one for the laser cutter, thereby significantly increasing overall productivity.”
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