Founded in 2004, Stoffus is a leader in the development and construction of leather and fabric sofas in the Portuguese market. In February last year, the company opened a brand new facility and digitally transformed their processes with the objective of improving working conditions and growing their business.
When the global pandemic caused many companies to shift production to personal protective equipment (PPE), Stoffus leveraged Gerber Technology’s integrated solutions to not only run their normal business operations, but also keep up with growing demand for made-to-order furniture resulting in doubling its production capacity.
As soon as Stoffus moved into the new facility, the company was able to move towards new goals with integrated digital processes that immediately enabled a simultaneous increase in profitability and productivity.
Stoffus’ showroom
Since the implementation of Gerber’s AccuMark and AccuNest™ software, digitiser, plotter and GERBERcutter Z1, Stoffus has seen a 50% reduction in manpower, an improved material savings between 1m to 1.5m per sofa, and 100% increase in productivity. Stoffus is now able to daily produce 25 to 30 sofas compared to previously producing 15 sofas.
“For furniture manufacturers, the pandemic has caused a major increase in demand as people spend more time in their home,” stated Francisco Aguiar of Gerber Technology. “Without technology, manufacturers will work more hours and shifts to keep up with the demand and end up reducing efficiency, increasing costs, and hurting their bottom line.
However, companies like Stoffus, who have digitally adapted, are not only able to keep up with demand but will also shorten lead times, reduce errors and as a result improve margins.”
Today’s consumers want modular and customised products which is why Stoffus relies on a made-to-order model. Stoffus offers a customisation service as well as a collection where it’s possible to customise colours, fabrics, ergonomics, functions, decorative details and desired measurements.
Prior to implementing Gerber’s integrated solution, Stoffus relied on manual processes which resulted in longer than usual delivery times as the demand for furniture grew. In order to ensure greater agility and efficiency, Stoffus needed a reliable partner that would help them digitally transform their supply chain.
The investment also allows Stoffus to embrace technological innovation and better serve its customers. The company is also able to expand its business with the launch of a new brand, Andretti, which will help to enter the high decoration market in new markets such as Canada, USA, UK, Japan and South Korea.
Luis Salgado, CEO and founder of Stoffus
“Speed, quality, optimised and integrated processes, combined with excellent service were the decisive reasons for choosing Gerber as a partner over the competition,” explains Luis. “The trust factor in a technological partner that guarantees a stable presence and service of quality is essential for an increase in productivity and precision in delivery times.
“Above all, I chose Gerber for their assistance and technical support and service, as well as the excellent quality of the equipment. We consider it essential to have a team to help us work better and more efficiently and Gerber managed to convey that confidence and stability.”
