Inside Matsuura: Andrew's Japan Trip | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E108

In this solo debrief, Andrew recounts his visit to Matsuura’s plants in Japan, where he observed firsthand the discipline and detail that define Japanese manufacturing. He describes how Matsuura trains new employees years in advance, the precision of their hand-scraping process, and the consistency achieved by grinding every pallet on a single master machine.

He also discusses the innovations he saw in Matsuura’s hybrid LUMEX metal 3D printing and machining technology, spindle balancing rigs, and integrated chip briquetting systems. Beyond the machines themselves, he reflects on Matsuura’s culture of multi-generational leadership, long-tenured employees, and a genuine curiosity about how customers use their equipment.

Andrew explains the real opportunities in palletized five-axis automation, from reducing setups to unlocking flexible, high-mix production. He emphasizes that these machines require not just investment, but vision and continuous learning to realize their full potential.