VT Industries: A mass producer of quartz countertops
Initially recognized for its laminate and wood products, Holstein, IA-based VT Industries is now a leading producer of quartz and natural stone countertops in the southern California market
Founded in 1956 by Roger Clausen, VT Industries remains a family-owned business — now under the leadership of its third generation. While the Holstein, IA-based company holds true to the same core values originally instilled by its founder, it also has grown and diversified since its origin. In addition to being a leading manufacturer of laminate countertops and wood doors, VT Industries also is a large producer of natural stone and quartz countertops. The company opened its facility in La Mirada, CA, five years ago, which houses its stone production and operates under a lean manufacturing system.
The California facility was established as a mass-produced quartz operation — with 95% of its products being engineered quartz surfacing. To ensure that the 130,000-square-foot plant runs as efficiently as possible, a lean manufacturing system was implemented. A large board is positioned in the facility where workers can easily view it, and it illustrates what needs improvement.