Optimization of production processes in a high-end leather goods company: the Miles Manifattura case

In the current competitive environment of luxury manufacturing, process optimization represents a key lever to increase production efficiency and respond to market demands. Within this context, it becomes essential to adopt management strategies based on continuous improvement, to enhance economic performance and ensure long-term sustainability. Lean management is considered as one of the most effective approaches to maximizing operational efficiency. When properly adapted to artisanal and high-end manufacturing realities, lean principles and tools can improve workflow efficiency reducing wastes, without compromising the quality and craftsmanship that define luxury products. This thesis project was developed during a curricular internship within the leather goods division of the Miles group. The main objective is the determination and optimization, through a lean perspective, of standard times in a high-end leather goods manufacturing process. The work is structured into six main chapters: - Chapter 1 presents the theoretical framework, exploring the key concepts of Lean Manufacturing and Work Study - Chapter 2 describes the origins of the Miles Group and the case study context - Chapter 3 provides a complete analysis of the current state of the production process - Chapter 4 includes detailed time analysis based on collected data, highlighting inefficiencies and critical areas - Chapter 5 aims to suggest process improvement solutions in accordance with Lean principles - Chapter 6 outlines the conclusions of the study.