Lean Storage Model for Enhancing Operational Efficiency: A Case Study of a Peruvian Pharmaceutical SME

The textile sector, particularly in Latin America and Peru, plays a vital role in the global economy, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) representing a significant portion of this industry. Despite their importance, these SMEs face numerous challenges, including disorganization, lack of continuous cleaning, and non-compliance with safety standards, which hinder their efficiency and competitiveness. To address these issues, the study proposed a Lean Manufacturing model, specifically tailored to the needs of textile SMEs, focusing on the 5S methodology. This model aimed to improve workplace organization, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance overall productivity. The model's implementation involved systematic training and the application of the 5S methodology—Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain. This approach led to a measurable reduction in non-delivered orders, from 19% to 17%, and a decrease in late deliveries, from 20% to 18%. Additionally, the 5S audit score significantly increased from 31% to 90%, reflecting the model's effectiveness in improving workplace organization and operational efficiency. The study's findings have significant academic and socioeconomic implications, demonstrating that adopting Lean tools can substantially enhance the operational performance of textile SMEs. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge and provides a practical framework that can be replicated in similar contexts. It calls for further exploration into Lean Manufacturing applications in SMEs, encouraging researchers and practitioners to continue developing innovative solutions to improve efficiency and competitiveness in the textile industry.