A build-to-order philosophy that emptied the Baxter Manufacturing warehouse has led to a productivity push by the sheetmetal fabricator. Keys to the push are new laser-beam-cutting and gas-tungsten-arc-welding equipment.Three years ago, tons of stainless steel gleamed in the light of the Baxter Manufacturing warehouse in Orting, WA. Rack ovens, deck ovens, proof boxes, donut fryers, bagel boilers, ingredient bins and related bakery systems bakery systems lined the walls, destined for supermarkets, sub shops, pizza parlors, bakeries and delis. But, today, after becoming part of Hobart Bakery Systems and subsequently Illinois Tool Works (ITW), the Baxter warehouse stands empty-and the company's managers and its employees have never been happier.
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