The factory layout overhaul at Uwira Oy—part of the Leinolat Group and located in Suvilahti, Vaasa—is nearing completion. The primary goals of the project are to shorten production lead times and enhance employee well-being. Alongside the layout changes, Uwira’s production control system has been updated, and the staff facilities across all factory halls have been renovated. By the turn of the year, the project was almost entirely finished, with only finishing touches remaining for Hall 2.
Aligning facilities with production flow
The layout overhaul and renovation, which began in early 2025, aim to streamline and boost production flow while improving both workplace satisfaction and safety. Previously, identical work stages were carried out in various parts of the hall. Following the changes, the positioning of workstations and equipment now aligns with the natural flow of production.
Work tasks have been centralized so that each stage of production takes place in its own designated area. Additionally, various production functions have been rearranged across the halls into a more efficient layout. As part of the changes, Uwira has shifted its production control method from a “push” system to a “pull” system. In the pull system, semi-finished components are called to assembly stations based on the work queue. This ensures timely and efficient product manufacturing while keeping the production areas uncluttered and organized. “The most important aspect of the entire project is optimizing the production flow and its management so that we can utilize the full potential of our production capacity. While we cannot eliminate transport and material handling entirely, they will be significantly reduced, and movements will now align with the production flow. Furthermore, all tools are now neatly organized in their own clearly designated spots,” says Otto Lammi, Production Manager at Uwira.
Occupational safety, workplace comfort, and ergonomics
The renovation was planned in-house by Uwira’s own staff. It was important for Uwira to design the layout in collaboration with the production team; together, they identified the best possible solutions for aspects such as the placement of goods and machinery. Lammi emphasizes that the new layout will improve occupational safety, workplace comfort, and ergonomics.
“We have strived to consider everything that affects staff well-being. For instance, we have improved the factory’s lighting and reduced noise levels. We also carried out an extensive renovation of the staff facilities in every hall, completely updating the break rooms, locker rooms, and washrooms. Beyond surface-level improvements, we also enhanced functionality—staff members now have separate lockers for personal and work clothing, and we have added dedicated changing facilities for women.”
Positive impact on delivery times
The new layout is expected to have a positive impact on delivery times by shortening production lead times. A clear, functional layout makes it easier to identify potential issues, enabling continued improvements to production processes.
“This is a significant and important project for Uwira. We look forward to seeing the results in practice,” Lammi concludes.