Programmable Electronic Sewing Automaton Towards KPI's Improvement in the Automotive Covers Seating Industry: A Novel Approach to Enhancing Supply Chain Efficiency Amid Inflation and Recession

Abstract

As globalization accelerates and economic instability intensifies, particularly with rising inflation and the risk of recession, the automotive industry faces growing pressure to optimize costs and ensure production resilience. This paper presents a case study from a multinational supplier of automotive seat covers, focusing on a production site located in Morocco. The study investigates the impact of industrial automation on key performance indicators (KPIs), especially productivity and quality, through the implementation of a Programmable Electronic Sewing Automaton on a pull-flow production line. This strategic automation initiative, concerning a project representing 70% of the plant's turnover, led to significant improvements in efficiency, operational safety, and ergonomics for high-precision tasks. A comparative analysis before and after Automaton integration validated by t-test or student test demonstrates how intelligent systems can help manufacturers adapt to economic pressures, maintain competitiveness, and meet customer expectations even in times of inflation and economic downturn.