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substantial investments in automation, particularly in quality control and distribution. Automated solutions to ensure the devices are waterproof, along with the introduction of a new shell resin that makes custom devices shock and drop-proof, have been game changers for patients with active lifestyles. Moreover, these advances have led to fewer returns due to damage from accidental mishandling. Starkey’ s new automated laser soldering process has also eliminated solder joint issues, resulting in higher quality technology that has been very well received by both hearing professionals and patients. Its US distribution center has also benefited from numerous investments in automation, contributing to Starkey’ s industry-leading on-time delivery rates averaging 99 percent. Together, these automation efforts have streamlined its processes and delivered significant improvements in product quality and delivery.
According to Brandon, these investments in automation have not only boosted quality and delivery performance in the United States but also laid the foundation for Starkey’ s recent global expansion.“ In the last 18 months, two large-scale international projects have optimized our ability to increase quality and scalability of production output to support our customers across both Europe and Asia,” he informs.“ We opened a new distribution center in Europe, which has empowered us to better support our expanding customer base on the continent. The European distribution center drastically simplifies our supply chain across Europe while enabling us to maintain the level of quality and service excellence our customers have come to expect from us.
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