Donnelly Takes First Class to New Heights

DONNELLY TAKES FIRST CLASS TO NEW HEIGHTS
Donnelly Custom Manufacturing Company lands large molding project for B/E Aerospace

ALEXANDRIA, Minn.— May 14, 2007 — B/E Aerospace, a leading manufacturer of cabin interior products for commercial aircraft and business jets, recently selected Donnelly Custom Manufacturing Company as the injection molder for managing and producing 43 different parts and 21 molds for a variety of first-class and business-class aircraft seats.

“Our reputation in short-run manufacturing gave B/E Aerospace the confidence to invite our engineers into their design process,” said Ron Kirscht, president of Donnelly. “Early involvement in the project will enable us to deliver a quality product on time.”

Donnelly was awarded the first phase of the business in the early stages of the project, allowing their engineers to become integrally involved in the design process. Donnelly was able to ensure the parts were designed for optimum moldability and part aesthetics were not sacrificed. The project contains components of first-class and business-class airline seats including the newer modules that lie back horizontally and include flat screen televisions.

“B/E Aerospace sought out Donnelly because of its innovative tool change processes and material delivery systems which enable them to do short-run molding,” said Janice Kandeffer, VP strategic supply chain management at B/E Aerospace. “Donnelly’s innovation and expertise provide us a high level of confidence they can meet our requirements.”

B/E Aerospace found that Donnelly understands the complexities associated with the cosmetic design issues of the aircraft seats. The quick sales cycle of the aircraft seats required accelerated turn-around from Donnelly. Assembly of these seats, which serve three different aircraft, begins this May.

Based in Alexandria, Minn., Donnelly’s 230 employees are dedicated to setting the standards in the custom injection-molding marketplace for “How Short Run Is Done.” The company’s focus is on providing its OEM customers with value added engineering, and highly customized manufacturing and customer support services. A strong customer service orientation ensures outstanding customer satisfaction.