Abstract
This is a case study that investigates factors that affect the implementation of lean supply chain concepts in a South African clothing manufacturing company, hereafter referred to as Company A. The company’s primary markets are public hospitals in Gauteng Province and it offers a wide range of hospital linen and apparel for hospital staff, patients and wards. The study was conducted at the premises of Company A and it analyses the extent to which production of defective parts, overproduction, excessive inventory, unnecessary production steps, unnecessary movement of people, workers waiting for material and unnecessary handling of material affect the attainment of lean supply chain. Areas covered by the study are segments of the production department; namely the storeroom, cutting room, garment construction, cleaning and despatch. The study also looks at the attempts made and challenges encountered by Company A in eliminating these wastes. The effects of these wastes are visible throughout the company from sourcing of raw materials to the delivery of finished products. They affect delivery lead times, product/service quality, cost and customer satisfaction. These findings have implications on the competitiveness of Company A. They help Company A to focus on establishing supply chain linkages that reduce the wastes. The study contributes by suggesting a model that a manufacturing entity should adopt to reduce the impact of the seven wastes.