Changes at IDEAL EUROPE

IDEAL EUROPE (KUTNO): Two vital changes took place at the European factory of the IDEAL GROUP in Kutno, Poland. 

First, IDEAL EUROPE invested a newly web base ERP system. The old software was not able to cover the today’s high requirements of “on demand” manufacturing and a well managed supply chain any more.  Now with a strongly improved IT infrastructure, IDEAL EUROPE is sure that its customers will feel the advantages soon.  The implementation of the application is already done.  After some final customization of the system, the complete manufacturing processes will be well controlled.  Variant production with small complex quantities break down are now in trendy, as well as for possible traditional mass production will be able to support by new IT system.

Louis Chan (Executive Vice President of the Ideal Bicycle Corporation) states: “With this investment we are sure to make a big step for the best service to the customers”’ 

Secondly, a new general management had been announced.  Mr Stefan Boschen has replaced the former general manager Mr. Wim van Dam.  After nearly six years of managing the affairs of IDEAL EUROPE.  Mr van Dam is returning back to the Netherlands for his retirement.   

Since June the 2^nd 2005, Mr Boschen is running the factory, he is not totally unknown in the bicycle industry.  Having been busy for several bicycle manufacturers (VSF Fahrradmanufaktur / Derby Cycle Werke / Riese und Mueller) he can fall back on more than ten years experience in the two wheelers branch, In his bicycle business career, he had been working in several functions covering the whole bicycle business. Especially in the area of mid to high range City/Trekking bicycles, he has great experiences.   Stefan Boschen explained: “What is more the bicycle is not just “any product” for me, but something I like to use myself preferably every day”. 

The last few years he was busy in the IT business working as a consultant for ERP software systems.  By this, he got to know the way of working in other industries as well as broadened his horizon.  He already was the one who helped IDEAL EUROPE to implement the new ERP system.  Seems that working in a bicycle factory for IT system remind him that The bicycle is still his preferred field of work. 

After opening their new factory in China the IDEAL group keeps its high speed of preparing itself for the future needs of today’s business.  Louis Chan is sure: ”The changes at our European plant will help our customers and us to continue playing an important role in the bicycle business.”