Heller Machine Tools LP honored

For the second year running, Heller Machine Tools LP, Troy, Mich., was named the General Motors Co. supplier of the year in the category of indirect material and machinery during GM's 26th annual Supplier of the Year awards in Orlando, Fla.

GM recognized 132 of its best suppliers from 17 countries that have consistently exceeded GM's expectations, created outstanding value, or brought innovations to the company. The announcement represented the most suppliers GM has recognized since debuting the Supplier of the Year event in 1992.

The award was presented to HELLER for its RFK and DRZ ranges of crankshaft milling/turning machinery, engineering and applications which are being used by GM in many global manufacturing plants. HELLER was the only metalcutting machine tool company chosen for an award this year.

Since the machines were installed in its plants, GM has seen significant reductions in crankshaft production costs along with improved accuracy and reliability, all of which contributed to its receiving this award.

Wolfgang Maerker, Vice President of the HELLER Crankshaft Division, commented “GM have been very supportive of our company and we are honored yet again to win this award.”

The General Motors event was attended by over 600 GM and supplier company executives and their guests.

The event was hosted by Steve Kiefer, GM Senior Vice President Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, who explained in great detail how GM are working with suppliers to form strategic partnerships with higher quality intercompany relationships at all levels.

General Motors has over 20,000 suppliers globally and this year only 132 of these suppliers were presented with awards within 11 different categories, the requirements for the awards being very detailed with a major focus on quality, innovation, delivery, performance, safety, commercials and customer support.

The event also included several “team building” events which enabled the attendees to look at new ideas and innovations in both the automotive and business worlds. The team building also provided a platform for group networking with the GM executives and staff.

Stephen Pegram, Vice President of Sales for HELLER, said “GM are using the very latest technology to produce several ranges of crankshafts. Our teams have formed a great partnership and ensured our projects have been successful and to the original timelines, and we thank GM for the recognition and award.”