David Allen: Behind the Scenes of Custom Product Manufacturing

This podcast episode features a conversation with David Allen, the owner of Allen Manufacturing, a family-owned business in Lewiston, Maine. Specializing in cutting and sewing custom products such as dog collars, leashes, tote bags, and duffel bags from leather and other materials, Allen Manufacturing has grown by prioritizing people, innovative problem-solving, and a genuine passion…
Manufacturers Mindset - David Allen

Behind the Scenes: Custom Product Manufacturing

David highlights the business’s diverse portfolio, where they assist customers in designing and manufacturing products to meet their specific needs. He recounts intriguing projects like creating 120,000 leather coasters for a company giveaway and producing sword cases for U.S. Marine graduation ceremonies. According to David, the variety of work and the chance to support customers in building their businesses are what he finds most rewarding in the manufacturing industry.

Overcoming Challenges in the Manufacturing Industry

David notes that the business has been fortunate to avoid major crises when asked about significant challenges. He mentions typical issues such as equipment breakdowns and the challenge of finding reliable staff, but explains they’ve navigated these problems by fostering strong relationships with repair technicians and treating employees well. David underscores the importance of flexibility and accommodation with staff, often making exceptions when necessary to keep good workers.

Planning for the Future of Allan Manufacturing

Regarding the future of the business, David shares that while his own children are not currently interested in taking it over, he is open to the possibility of one of his many nieces or nephews getting involved someday. For now, David plans to continue running the business as long as it doesn’t interfere with his and his wife’s desire to travel. He takes great pride and purpose in the work and doesn’t foresee selling or retiring anytime soon.

Lessons Learned from Working with Family in Business

Reflecting on his time working with his late father, who taught him the business, David shares that the most valuable lesson he learned was the importance of taking care of customers and treating people well. He strives to embody this philosophy in his approach to running the company and in his interactions with both customers and employees.

Customer Service and Communication: Keys to Success

As parting advice, David emphasizes the critical nature of providing excellent customer service, communicating clearly and promptly, and building strong relationships – both with customers and with other industry contacts who can provide expertise and support when needed. He believes these principles have been key to the longevity and success of Allen Manufacturing.

The Values and Leadership of Allan Manufacturing

Overall, the conversation paints a picture of a family-owned manufacturing business that has thrived by prioritizing people, problem-solving, and a genuine passion for the work, rather than focusing solely on the bottom line. David’s leadership and values shine through as he discusses the challenges and rewards of running a niche, custom manufacturing operation.



Links
https://www.allenmfgusa.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-allen-3019a28

Topics Discussed


1. “The Legacy of Allen Manufacturing: A Family Business Story”

2. “Behind the Scenes: Custom Product Manufacturing with David Allen”

3. “From Leather Coasters to Sword Cases: Unique Projects at Allen Manufacturing”

4. “Overcoming Challenges in the Manufacturing Industry”

5. “The Importance of Flexibility and Relationships in Business”

6. “Planning for the Future of Allen Manufacturing”

7. “Lessons Learned from Working with Family in Business”

8. “Customer Service and Communication: Keys to Success”

9. “The Values and Leadership of Allen Manufacturing”

10. “Thriving in Niche Manufacturing: The Allen Manufacturing Story

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